What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about Wisconsin? If you’re like most people, chances are you’re already thinking about visiting local cheese makers in Monroe and marveling at gorgeous views of cherry blossoms in Door County.
Then there’s the treasure trove of hiking trails and campgrounds spread across Wisconsin’s many national parks, lakes, and forests. It’s one of those states that packs plenty of surprises for travelers, across all seasons.
While most people visit Wisconsin during spring and summer, winter is that time of the year when you get to witness the state’s idyllic beauty. Most cities and towns transform into dreamy winter wonderlands, complete with snow-clad forests and roads.
And your winter escapade to Wisconsin would be incomplete without trying your hands at snowmobiling.
The Joy of Snowmobiling
Imagine riding a sled, meandering through a snow-covered trail amidst a picturesque forest enveloped in white. That’s snowmobiling in Wisconsin for you. It’s an awe-inspiring adventure that’ll leave you gasping for breath (quite literally). It’s the closest you’ll get to watch the pages of a Christmas fairytale come to you.
The best part is that during winter, Wisconsin turns home to a plethora of idyllic snowmobile trails. Whether you’re a seasoned snowmobiler or planning to try your hands at it for the first time, you’ll find plenty of scenic trails across the state.
In this blog, we’ll discuss a few useful tips to help you experience the thrill of snowmobiling in Wisconsin. Let’s get started.
Familiarize Yourself With the Trail
First things first – there’s no dearth of snowmobile trails in Wisconsin. From Bayfield County and Eagle River to St. Germain and the Three Lakes downtown area – the abundance of snowmobile trails in Wisconsin will confuse and overwhelm you.
That isn’t surprising considering that the state is endowed with more than 25,000 miles of gorgeous snowmobile trails.
But it’s important to remember that snowmobiling is a tricky sport that can lead to accidents and injuries. So, irrespective of where you decide to try snowmobiling in Wisconsin, make sure you have a clear understanding of the trail.
Go on practice rides to become familiar with the twists, turns, and bumps on the road. Also, it’ll give you a fair idea of the kind of traffic you can expect on the trail. It’s just as important to identify rest stops for grabbing snacks, drinking water, etc., and refueling your sled.
Moreover, acquainting yourself with the trail will help you keep an eye out for must-see attractions, such as the Ice Castle creation on the Eagle River trail and The Plummer Mine in Hurley.
Check the Weather Forecast
This one’s a given whenever you’re planning to enjoy any outdoor activities. It’s particularly important for snowmobiling because winter weather in Wisconsin can be fairly extreme. Apart from snowfall and blizzards, ice-cold winds and freezing temperatures are a winter mainstay.
Make sure you use an accurate and reliable Madison radar to check the weather forecast for your snowmobile trail. Having an idea of the current weather and future forecasts will help you pick a suitable day and time for snowmobiling.
Check the hourly weather prediction to choose a time when the skies are going to be clear minus any chances of precipitation. Also, make sure you select your attire according to the weather.
Follow Safety Precautions
As with any adventure sport, snowmobiling comes with a wide range of risks and safety hazards. Snowmobile crashes are more common in Wisconsin than you’d like to believe. Letting your guard down could result in severe injuries and fatalities.
But that shouldn’t stop you from experiencing the thrill of riding a sled in Wisconsin’s winter wonderland. You just have to learn and follow the required safety precautions.
Start by checking your sled and other gear to ensure that your equipment is in proper working condition. If you’re riding for the first time, consider going along with someone who has prior snowmobiling experience.
Also, it’s a good idea to avoid venturing into a snowmobile trail all by yourself. The last thing you want is to get into an accident on a deserted trail with no friends or family members to help you out. If, at all, you decide to go alone, share constant updates with your family members.
Additionally, you should adhere to other safety measures, such as wearing a sturdy helmet, knee pads, goggles, and a pair of gloves. Also, dress in multiple layers of water-resistant clothing to protect your body from freezing temperatures.
Experiencing snowmobiling in Wisconsin is every adventure enthusiast’s dream come true. Irrespective of the trail you select, you’ll be delighted with spellbinding views of the snow-covered surroundings. Make sure you check the weather forecast, familiarize yourself with the trail, and follow necessary safety measures.
